Hello
NICE has today published a new guideline on the use of induction in labour, and one of the changes they're making is to recommend that induction should be undertaken one week earlier than has previously been advised.
NICE says (bolding added by MNHQ):
"Inducing women in labour earlier than previously advised will make birth safer for them and their babies, according to draft guidelines published by NICE today (25 May 2021). The updated recommendations strengthen previous advice in the light of new evidence on induction timings."
"The draft guideline, an update of the 2008 version, recommends that women with uncomplicated singleton pregnancies should be offered induction at 41 weeks and the induction should take place as soon as possible. Previous guidelines advised induction between 41 and 42 weeks, and that women who had chosen not to be induced should be monitored after 42 weeks. If women choose not to have induced labour their decision should be supported and their care options discussed with them."
"Recent research which compared induction times and outcomes showed higher infant mortality after 42 weeks if the woman had not been induced."
You can read the full draft guideline [https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/indevelopment/gid-ng10082/consultation/html-content here]]
We're being asked by the media what you all think about this - so do let us know - we know induction is a topic that concerns a lot of you.
Thanks
MNHQ